Benefits of Mineral Makeup (Updated 2018)
Makeup is an extension of your skincare, so it’s important to select skin-healthy makeup that covers, corrects and protects. With broad spectrum UV protection and antioxidant benefits, it’s no wonder mineral cosmetics are a favorite among skincare professionals.
What is Mineral Makeup?
Minerals such as mica, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide and boron nitride are milled into ultra-fine particles to create mineral cosmetics. Chemicals, fillers and dyes found in traditional makeup are not part of the formula, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
Mineral Makeup is Good for Sensitive Skin
Embraced by dermatologists, plastic surgeons and skincare professionals, minerals are ideal for use after chemical or laser procedures, when your skin is at its most compromised state, to help protect the skin. Unlike traditional makeup products, minerals are non-occlusive, meaning they allow the skin to breathe. Mineral cosmetics are great for even the most sensitive skin.
Mineral Products Help Provide Protection from the Sun
Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, two minerals used in physical sunscreen, lay on the surface of the skin creating a barrier and deflecting the sun’s rays like a mirror. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, mineral makeup should serve to help supplement your sun protection since it uses the properties of these two minerals to provide broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection and helps defend against free radical damage.
However, since coverage depends on how liberally you apply the product as well as the method of application, it is also recommended to apply mineral sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher, and follow with a layer of pressed or loose powder to get the most optimal coverage. Since they’re not absorbed into the skin, mineral sunscreens are, again, a better option for people with sensitive skin.
Mineral Makeup vs. Traditional Makeup Ingredients
Traditional makeup often contains talc, chemical dyes and artificial fragrance. Talcum powder, which is made from talc, is a bulking agent. It allows cosmetic companies to increase the product size without increasing pigment. The final product has greater oil-absorbing properties but requires more product to achieve desired coverage. Because mineral makeup lacks talc in its formula, it's much lighter and needs less layering to achieve the desired look. So, you’ll be able to apply less and won’t need to reapply throughout the day to maintain coverage.
Talc particles are heavier than mineral pigment, so makeup containing talc feels heavier on the skin and needs multiple applications throughout the day as it wears off and settles into pores and facial lines. This is what contributes to uneven coverage and that “cakey” look. Talc can also exacerbate skin conditions like acne and rosacea.
Mineral makeup stands apart from traditional cosmetics because there are no harsh ingredients in mineral makeup formulas. The use of mineral makeup can help users avoid acne, rosacea, dry skin and the settling of products in pores and fine lines. Also, with a more natural product like mineral makeup, you’re avoiding artificial dyes and fragrances which can inflame skin and cause allergic reactions. If you’re ever in doubt, always read your ingredient labels!
How Do I Apply Mineral Foundation?
Always moisturize your skin before applying makeup, then start your mineral makeup foundation application with a pea-size amount of primer to re-texturize the skin for a smooth, even canvas. Select the right base for your skin type and the coverage level you prefer.
For loose and pressed powder, use a brush with a full head, like the Pro Kabuki Brush or Flat-top Kabuki Brush. With a few swirls and a gentle tap to release excess powder, lightly buff onto desired areas of the face. Set the look to last all day with a setting powder. You can also set your makeup and hydrate your skin with a spritz of hydration mist.
You Deserve Better
There are so many excellent reasons to stop using your mother’s beauty routine when it comes to makeup. Staying informed on the ingredients you use on your skin will help you make the right choices for you. A flawless foundation is possible without the pitfalls of traditional makeup by using mineral makeup.
To see the many variations of mineral makeup, from foundations to shadows and everything in between, glo minerals has a wide selection of beauty treatments you need to look your best. When you try it, you will see and feel the difference.